By Bring Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe | Easy 20-Minute Vegetarian Dinner to your table with an easy method and crowd-pleasing taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike.
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe | Easy 20-Minute Vegetarian Dinner captures the essence of drinks while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe | Easy 20-Minute Vegetarian Dinner becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
8 oz penne or any pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
PREPARATION STEPS
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Make the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add the cream: Stir in the heavy cream and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until well coated
If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Finish and serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or Parmesan if desired.
Time needed: 20 minutes total.
Calories: Approximately 400-450 per serving.
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 0 min | Total: 10 min | Servings: 2 | Calories: ~150 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Breakfast pastries; Light snacks; Fruit salad
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
